The most important outcome of yesterday’s game were the three points. Palmeiras performed below average, something supporters were not expecting after such an intense game against São Paulo and against an, on paper, much weaker opponent and lacking many of their regular starters. Zé Rafael’s early goal indicated an easy game, but Palmeiras uninspiring night put everything at risk, Ceará creating many opportunities and failing to equalize only due to Weverton’s tremendous night.
Line-up
Weverton; Mayke (Jean), Gustavo Gómez, Vitor Hugo and Diogo Barbosa; Felipe Melo, Bruno Henrique and Scarpa (Lucas Lima); Zé Rafael, Dudu and Deyverson (Henrique Dourado).
Green light
Weverton is the one to thank for the victory. Besides saving a penalty, the goalkeeper performed at least another three incredible saves to declare Palmeiras’ 14th clean sheet in the Brazilian Championship.
Yellow light
Worrying Palmeiras relying on an inspired night of our keeper to earn the points against a team fighting relegation. The performance raises doubts whether the team will be regular enough to be a serious title contender.
Red light
The refereeing trio was disastrous. Ceará had a goal deemed offside by VAR, but the assistant had flagged before the play was concluded – which is against recommendations in close calls like this – and induced our players to stop playing (rookie mistake), letting Ceará score. In addition, the penalty awarded to Ceará was very dubious.
A hundred
Yesterday’ victory was Palmeiras’ hundredth in 149 games played at the Allianz Parque, with 27 draws and 22 defeats, having scored 275 goals and suffered 109. Palmeiras currently maintain a long streak without losing at the Allianz Parque, 22 games, the last defeat in February.
Next challenge
After two consecutive home games, Palmeiras fly to Rio de Janeiro, to face Vasco da Gama on Wednesday 11th, at 9:30 pm local time. The carioca team is doing an irregular campaign in the Brazilian Championship but has undeniably improved since the arrival of legendary coach Luxemburgo. A victory is the only interesting result to keep momentum in the pursuit of the leaders.
Scoppia che la vittoria è nostra!
– – – ooo – – –
by Augusto Anteghini Oazi
ANYTHING PALMEIRAS 